Billy Covington If you’re a car enthusiast who owns a 2015 Subaru STI, chances are you enjoy working on your own vehicle. While basic car maintenance such as changing a tire or replacing brake pads is relatively easy, replacing wheel studs requires a bit more expertise. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of replacing wheel studs on your 2015 Subaru STI, providing you with step-by-step instructions and some tips and tricks along the way.
Why Replace Wheel Studs Yourself?
Replacing wheel studs yourself has several benefits. Firstly, labor costs are expensive, so doing it yourself can save you money. Secondly, replacing wheel studs yourself allows you to customize them to match the overall design of your car, adding a personalized touch. Lastly, it can give you a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment knowing that you did it yourself.
Tools You’ll Need
Before we get started, let’s take a look at what tools you’ll need:
- Lug Wrench
- Jack
- Jack Stands
- Hammer
- Punch
- Replacement Wheel Studs
- Thread Locker
- Torque Wrench
- Breaker Bar
- Socket Set
Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you have everything you need, let’s start the wheel stud replacement process.
Step 1: Loosen the Lug Nuts
Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you want to replace the studs on, using your lug wrench. Make sure you don’t remove them completely yet.
Step 2: Lift the Car
Once the lug nuts are loosened, use the jack to lift the car off the ground and secure it using jack stands. Make sure the car is stable before proceeding to the next step.
Step 3: Remove the Wheel
Remove the lug nuts and the wheel. Place the wheel in a safe spot nearby.
Step 4: Remove the Old Wheel Stud
On the back of the hub flange, locate the wheel stud you want to replace. Using a hammer and punch, hammer the wheel stud out of the hub until it is completely removed.
Step 5: Install the New Wheel Stud
Insert the new wheel stud into the hole in the hub where the old wheel stud was, making sure it is seated and aligned correctly. Thread a lug nut onto the end of the new wheel stud to hold it in place.
Step 6: Tighten the Lug Nut
Using the breaker bar and socket set, tighten the lug nut to a torque of 60-80 lb-ft.
Step 7: Repeat Steps 4-6 for Other Wheel Studs
Repeat steps 4-6 for any other wheel studs that require replacement on the same wheel.
Step 8: Reinstall the Wheel
Reinstall the wheel onto the hub and thread the lug nuts by hand until they are snug.
Step 9: Tighten the Lug Nuts
Using the torque wrench, tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque value. Make sure to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even tightening.
Step 10: Lower the Car
Using the jack, lower the car to the ground. Once it is fully lowered, use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts one final time.
Step 11: Test Drive
Take your car for a test drive to ensure that everything is functioning correctly.
Congratulations! You have successfully replaced the wheel studs on your 2015 Subaru STI.
Tips and Tricks
- It is recommended to replace all the wheel studs on the same wheel, even if only one is damaged.
- Apply thread locker to the new wheel studs to prevent them from coming loose.
- Make sure the lug nuts are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure proper wheel function.
- Always follow proper safety precautions when working on a vehicle.
FAQ
Q: How do I know if my wheel studs need to be replaced?
A: If your wheel studs are damaged or worn out, you may hear a clicking or grinding sound, or notice the wheel is wobbling or vibrating during driving.
Q: Can I replace wheel studs myself without any prior experience?
A: Replacing wheel studs requires some basic knowledge of car maintenance and should be done carefully. It is recommended to seek professional help if you are unsure about the process.
Q: Can I reuse old lug nuts on new wheel studs?
A: It’s not recommended to use old lug nuts on new wheel studs, as they may not match the thread pattern. It’s important to use lug nuts designed for your specific vehicle and wheel.
In conclusion, replacing wheel studs on your 2015 Subaru STI is a task that can be done yourself with proper guidance and tools. By following our step-by-step guide and tips, you can ensure your wheels are well-maintained and safe while customizing them to your desired look. Remember to always follow safety precautions when working on your vehicle and seek professional help if you are unsure about any step of the process.
